African Basslet (Liopropoma africanum)

Fish in the family Serranidae. Expert care. Reef Safe.

African Basslet

Quick facts

Scientific nameLiopropoma africanum
FamilySerranidae
Care levelExpert
Reef safetyReef Safe
TemperamentAggressive
Dietcarnivore
Adult size5.5 in
Minimum tank size70 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.026
Feeding scheduleFeed 2-3 times daily

Appearance

Small, elongated serranid with a dark burgundy to brownish-red body marked with pale or cream-colored horizontal stripes running the length of the fish. The mouth is relatively large, and the overall body shape is streamlined for navigating rocky crevices.

Diet and feeding

Zooplankton, copepods, small crustaceans, marine worms, mollusks, fish eggs

Difficulty and care for the African Basslet

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Hole-in-the-head disease, Bacterial septicemia

Origin and habitat

West African coast, including areas off Mauritania, Senegal, and the Gulf of Guinea.

Log African Basslet in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track African Basslet alongside everything else in your reef.